- Texas Bitcoin mine may be affecting the health of nearby residents
- There is no direct evidence, but Dr. Michael Osborn says a negative impact is possible
- Namely, Dr. Keith Darrow says that health imagery is up about 150% from last year
Marathon Digital has a large Bitcoin mining farm in Texas that creates constant and loud noise for nearby residents.
Many of them have started getting more ear infections and generally feeling worse, which they blame on Marathon Digital’s farm.
The BBC interviewed local residents and asked Dr. Michael Osborn and Dr. Keith Darrow, who said that no direct link has been found, but in theory, the constant noise can have an impact on health and in fact, doctor visits have increased by 150% since last year.
What Is It Like for Nearby Residents?
Many complain that the incessant noise affects people and even animals, making them feel sick.
One couple complained that they are affected, and their son has had otitis media, an ear infection, three times in one year.
Another local resident who lives just a couple hundred meters away from the Bitcoin farm compared the noise level to a vacuum cleaner running under a blanket and showed on video how loud it is.
Doctors’ Opinions on the Possible Effects of a Bitcoin Farm
Of course, a direct link between malaise and Bitcoin mining has not been proven, however, Dr. Michael Osborn, a researcher and doctor at Massachusetts General Hospital says:
“It is entirely possible and understandable that prolonged exposure to these kinds of stressors can lead to negative health consequences.”
In turn, Dr. Keith Darrow noted a significant increase in the number of patients:
“This summer we are seeing a significant increase in the number of patients complaining about noise, about 100-150% more than last year.”
At the moment the noise level has been reduced to about 70 dB, which is also noted by local residents. However, they are still dissatisfied with the noise level and are demanding that Marathon Digital reduce it further.
In turn, the company claims to adhere to the highest health and safety standards and is investing millions of dollars to reduce the volume.
Conclusion
Bitcoin mining is no different from any other manufacturing and should consider the influence of its operation on location and other factors.
Hopefully Marathon Digital will take action as far as possible, and residents will stop experiencing problems if these are indeed caused by the Bitcoin farm.
